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Asian markets rose on Friday, defying another decline on Wall Street, as China's state-run banks and other financial institutions were ordered to boost consumer spending. The positive trend was driven by gains in China, where the Shanghai Composite index surged 1.9% after the National Financial Regulatory Administration urged financial institutions to support consumer finance and encourage credit card use.

The rollout of an AI system designed to help child welfare centers identify abusive situations has been postponed due to concerns about its accuracy and reliability. The system frequently missed significant signs of severe abuse during trials, prompting the Children and Families Agency to delay its introduction.

Former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, in a veiled criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump, called for international cooperation and support for Ukraine, emphasizing the need for global unity and multilateralism to protect the rule of law and the free and open international order. He also urged Japan to take a more active role in promoting peace.

Central Japan Railway Co. (JR Tokai) plans to install next-generation, thin solar cells on noise barriers along its Tokaido Shinkansen Line, using the generated electricity to power lighting at stations and other facilities. The project aims to utilize the lightweight and flexible perovskite solar cells for sustainable energy production.

Trade minister Yoji Muto's trip to Washington failed to secure assurances from the U.S. that Japan would be exempt from tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles. Despite emphasizing Japan's economic contributions to the U.S., Muto only gained "some understanding" from U.S. officials and will continue to make Japan's case in future discussions.